You may know some people who are Type A personalities. They get up at 5 am every morning, take a cold shower, and begin working immediately. They are organized, efficient and flawless in their presentation. We could all use a good dose of this vigor and discipline, but there is a sense in which a person can go overboard. Like all 7 traits in Kabbala, the trait of Discipline should be balanced with the other six: Kindness, Harmony, Endurance, Humility, Foundation and Dignity.
Actually, Discipline should also be balanced with discipline. This may sound odd, but everyone knows people who can be described as “workaholics” or “disciplinarians”. A person’s approach to discipline might not be so disciplined after all. Perhaps, it is worth it for an A type personality to ponder their reasons for being so “disciplined”. Are there limits to my disciplined approach? Am I able to lighten up? Am I driven by fear (of bankruptcy, disapproval). Almost every character trait can be balanced and limited by itself.
The following are the ways in which the trait of Discipline can be balanced with the others:
Discipline and Kindness: Is my approach to discipline for the sake of creating and promoting a constructive end? Does it help others?
Discipline and Harmony: Is my regimen and attitude balanced? Is it sustainable?
Discipline and Endurance: Is my regimen something I can stick to, or do I pursue it in fits and starts? Do I only discipline my children when I am at my wit’s end, or am I consistent with my scheme of rewards and punishments?
Discipline and Humility: Am I strict because it “feels good”? Is there an element of self-aggrandizement in my approach to discipline? Or does my discipline aim to serve a higher goal?
Discipline and Foundation: What is the source for my discipline? How can I take steps to become more disciplined?
Discipline and Dignity: Do I lose myself in my discipline? Do I yell at my kids and sacrifice the respect they may have for me? Can I discipline with dignity?